Indigenous Italian Wines: A Journey Back to the Source
The Grapes of Home
While Italian immigrants in Canada adapted to new soils and climates, the vineyards they left behind in Sicily, Calabria, Basilicata, Puglia, Campania, Friuli, and Veneto continued to nurture some of the most distinctive indigenous grapes in the world. These varieties are deeply rooted in their landscapes — shaped by volcanic soils, coastal breezes, Alpine foothills, and centuries of human care.
The Grapes of Southern Italy
Sicily
From the sun-baked slopes of Sicily come Nero d’Avola, with its bold blackberry and spice notes, Frappato, a lighter, aromatic red once favoured in ancient Greek colonies, and Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria), whose dry form offers citrus and jasmine, and whose sweet passito style is honeyed with candied citrus and fig.
Calabria
Calabria’s Gaglioppo, often called the “Nebbiolo of the South,” yields elegant, earthy reds, while Guardavalle offers a rare, golden-hued white with citrus and herbal tones, and Magliocco delivers deep colour, velvety texture, and dark berry spice.
Basilicata and Campania
These two regions share the noble Aglianico, a grape introduced by the Greeks over two millennia ago, producing powerful, age-worthy wines still revered today. Campania also treasures Piedirosso, soft and floral; Greco di Tufo, mineral and almond-tinged; Falanghina, crisp and citrus-driven; and Fiano, with hazelnut, honey, and stone fruit notes.
Puglia
In Puglia, Primitivo — genetically linked to California’s Zinfandel — thrives alongside Susumaniello, a dark, brooding red making a modern comeback.
Friuli and Veneto
Far to the northeast, Friuli guards Friulano, crisp and almond-tinged, and Pinot Grigio, light, citrusy, and refreshing. Veneto, meanwhile, is home to Glera, the sparkling soul of Prosecco.
Ready to taste these wines for yourself?
Join us at our upcoming Food & Wine Pairing Dinner and experience the story and flavour of these unique grapes. We'll be celebrating the indigenous wines of these historic regions with a curated six-course dinner by Desotos! Space is limited so reserve your spot now!
